Catalytic α-Arylation of Ketones with Heteroaromatic Esters

Heteroaromatic esters were found to be applicable as an arylating agent for the Pd-catalyzed α-arylation of ketones in a decarbonylative fashion. The use of our in-house ligand, dcypt, enabled this unique bond formation. Considering the ubiquity and low cost of ­aromatic esters, the present work will allow for rapid access to valuable α-aryl carbonyl compounds.